Breakers Covenant Church International stands as a beacon of hope. It breathes new life into a historic Detroit landmark. This building was originally Temple Beth El. Albert Kahn designed it.
The story of Breakers Covenant Church International reflects Detroit’s changing landscape. Temple Beth El was built in 1922. It served a Reform Jewish congregation. Demographic shifts occurred. White flight changed the North End neighborhood.
In 1974, an African American congregation purchased the synagogue. Breakers Covenant is the third Black congregation to care for this building. It is listed in the National Register. It is a significant example of Classical Revival architecture. The sanctuary features a domed ceiling. Frescoes depict major figures in Jewish history. Original Jewish iconography remains. Members of Breakers Covenant diligently preserve these elements.
Breakers Covenant Church International purchased the building in 2014. They renamed it the Bethel Community Transformation Center. The center serves the North End neighborhood. It offers programs like emergency financial assistance. Social activities are available for older adults. Youth enrichment and counseling services are provided too.
The church partners with Downtown Synagogue. Together they create interfaith programming. They also host joint holiday celebrations. This strengthens the bond between the two congregations.
Breakers Covenant received a National Fund grant of $250,000. They must raise matching funds of $500,000. This money will address critical life safety needs. These needs were identified in a building conditions assessment. Repairs will be made to the exterior masonry. Windows and exterior stairs will be fixed. Work will also be done in the interior sub-basement.
The church’s mission extends beyond its walls. The Detroit Phoenix Center operates under Breakers Covenant. It helps youth ages 14-24. These young people are at risk of or experiencing homelessness. The center provides resources to improve health and self-sufficiency.
You can donate to Breakers Covenant Church International. Donations can be made via their website or Cash App. Checks can be mailed to their Woodward Avenue address.
The National Fund for Sacred Places supports Breakers Covenant. This funding supports an 18-month renovation project. The project addresses mental health and family welfare. It also focuses on job readiness and financial strength. The repairs stabilize critical areas of the building.
Breakers Covenant is committed to financial transparency. A Board of Directors oversees fundraising. They track the progress and expenditure of funds. The restoration project will create jobs. It will unite faith and racial communities. It will inspire hope for a better Detroit. The building is being sealed from the elements. The elevator is being repaired to make all floors accessible. Restrooms are being renovated. An architecture firm is retained. It specializes in historic building preservation. These investments prepare the facility for further use.
Remember Breakers Covenant Church International. It stands as a testament to faith and community. It is a place of transformation.